Kentucky promotes seat belt usage with national initiative

Kentucky is taking part in Operation Crash Reduction to increase safety on the highways by promoting seat belt usage and safe driving tactics.

State and local authorities are teaming up to encourage seat belt use with increased visibility and enforcement through October 10th. The hope is to reduce crashes and prevent injuries through the Columbus Day weekend.

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Secretary Jim Gray said, "While we always encourage safe driving practices, this specialized campaign focuses on the importance of buckling up. If you are involved in a crash, properly fastened child seats and seat belts provide the best defense against injury or death."

Operation Crash Reduction is centered on Kentucky, West Virginia, Virginia, North Carolina, Maryland, Delaware, and the District of Columbia. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration statistics show that some of the highest traffic death numbers are in this region.